Global Patent Index - EP 0805444 A1

EP 0805444 A1 19971105 - Single-side engaging picker for data cartridges

Title (en)

Single-side engaging picker for data cartridges

Title (de)

Einseitige Greifervorrichtung für Datenkassette

Title (fr)

Dispositif de saisie par un seul cÔté de cassettes de données

Publication

EP 0805444 A1 19971105 (EN)

Application

EP 97106305 A 19970416

Priority

US 64144296 A 19960429

Abstract (en)

A picker for data cartridges (300, 602) in a computer information storage library. The picker includes a sleeve (326, 400) for transporting data cartridges, a thumb (600) that can move in one dimension relative to the sleeve, and a single pivoting finger (606) on the thumb. The single finger has an inboard pivot point (608) which results in a self locking action (pulling makes the finger grip tighter). The finger has a armed state for gripping and a splayed state for release. Switching between states is passive, depending only on one dimensional motion of the thumb relative to the sleeve. The finger has a post (610) that travels in tracks (804, 806) in the sleeve. Switching tracks switches finger states. A spring loaded gate (808) in the tracks enables track switching. Potential cartridge wear and binding problems during extraction are eliminated by providing sleeve guides (312, 320) that limit cartridge rotation, by providing a concave guide surface (310) in storage locations, and by proper selection of materials. A corresponding drive has a handle (1100) that must be manipulated. The picker includes thumb details (1300, 1302) for manipulating the drive handle. <IMAGE>

IPC 1-7

G11B 15/68

IPC 8 full level

G11B 15/68 (2006.01); G11B 17/22 (2006.01)

CPC (source: EP US)

G11B 15/6835 (2013.01 - EP US)

Citation (search report)

Designated contracting state (EPC)

DE FR GB

DOCDB simple family (publication)

EP 0805444 A1 19971105; EP 0805444 B1 20030319; DE 69719842 D1 20030424; DE 69719842 T2 20031211; JP H1040615 A 19980213; US 6421306 B1 20020716

DOCDB simple family (application)

EP 97106305 A 19970416; DE 69719842 T 19970416; JP 10763097 A 19970424; US 64144296 A 19960429